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Pamula MC, Lehmann R. How germ granules promote germ cell fate. Nat Rev Genet 2024:10.1038/s41576-024-00744-8. [PMID: 38890558 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-024-00744-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Germ cells are the only cells in the body capable of giving rise to a new organism, and this totipotency hinges on their ability to assemble membraneless germ granules. These specialized RNA and protein complexes are hallmarks of germ cells throughout their life cycle: as embryonic germ granules in late oocytes and zygotes, Balbiani bodies in immature oocytes, and nuage in maturing gametes. Decades of developmental, genetic and biochemical studies have identified protein and RNA constituents unique to germ granules and have implicated these in germ cell identity, genome integrity and gamete differentiation. Now, emerging research is defining germ granules as biomolecular condensates that achieve high molecular concentrations by phase separation, and it is assigning distinct roles to germ granules during different stages of germline development. This organization of the germ cell cytoplasm into cellular subcompartments seems to be critical not only for the flawless continuity through the germline life cycle within the developing organism but also for the success of the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Lehmann
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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2
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Divyanshi, Yang J. Germ plasm dynamics during oogenesis and early embryonic development in Xenopus and zebrafish. Mol Reprod Dev 2023:10.1002/mrd.23718. [PMID: 38126950 PMCID: PMC11190040 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Specification of the germline and its segregation from the soma mark one of the most crucial events in the lifetime of an organism. In different organisms, this specification can occur through either inheritance or inductive mechanisms. In species such as Xenopus and zebrafish, the specification of primordial germ cells relies on the inheritance of maternal germline determinants that are synthesized and sequestered in the germ plasm during oogenesis. In this review, we discuss the formation of the germ plasm, how germline determinants are recruited into the germ plasm during oogenesis, and the dynamics of the germ plasm during oogenesis and early embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divyanshi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
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3
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Adashev VE, Kotov AA, Olenina LV. RNA Helicase Vasa as a Multifunctional Conservative Regulator of Gametogenesis in Eukaryotes. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:5677-5705. [PMID: 37504274 PMCID: PMC10378496 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45070358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Being a conservative marker of germ cells across metazoan species, DEAD box RNA helicase Vasa (DDX4) remains the subject of worldwide investigations thanks to its multiple functional manifestations. Vasa takes part in the preformation of primordial germ cells in a group of organisms and contributes to the maintenance of germline stem cells. Vasa is an essential player in the piRNA-mediated silencing of harmful genomic elements and in the translational regulation of selected mRNAs. Vasa is the top hierarchical protein of germ granules, liquid droplet organelles that compartmentalize RNA processing factors. Here, we survey current advances and problems in the understanding of the multifaceted functions of Vasa proteins in the gametogenesis of different eukaryotic organisms, from nematodes to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir E Adashev
- Department of Molecular Mechanisms for Realization of Genetic Information, Laboratory of Biochemical Genetics of Animals, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexei A Kotov
- Department of Molecular Mechanisms for Realization of Genetic Information, Laboratory of Biochemical Genetics of Animals, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ludmila V Olenina
- Department of Molecular Mechanisms for Realization of Genetic Information, Laboratory of Biochemical Genetics of Animals, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia
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4
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GLH/VASA helicases promote germ granule formation to ensure the fidelity of piRNA-mediated transcriptome surveillance. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5306. [PMID: 36085149 PMCID: PMC9463143 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32880-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
piRNAs function as guardians of the genome by silencing non-self nucleic acids and transposable elements in animals. Many piRNA factors are enriched in perinuclear germ granules, but whether their localization is required for piRNA biogenesis or function is not known. Here we show that GLH/VASA helicase mutants exhibit defects in forming perinuclear condensates containing PIWI and other small RNA cofactors. These mutant animals produce largely normal levels of piRNA but are defective in triggering piRNA silencing. Strikingly, while many piRNA targets are activated in GLH mutants, we observe that hundreds of endogenous genes are aberrantly silenced by piRNAs. This defect in self versus non-self recognition is also observed in other mutants where perinuclear germ granules are disrupted. Together, our results argue that perinuclear germ granules function critically to promote the fidelity of piRNA-based transcriptome surveillance in C. elegans and preserve self versus non-self distinction. Phase separated, membrane-less germ granules preserve fertility and cellular function in animal germ cells. Here the authors show that loss of germ granules impacts piRNA pathway fidelity in the recognition of self and non-self nucleic acids.
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5
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Dai S, Tang X, Li L, Ishidate T, Ozturk AR, Chen H, Dude AL, Yan YH, Dong MQ, Shen EZ, Mello CC. A family of C. elegans VASA homologs control Argonaute pathway specificity and promote transgenerational silencing. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111265. [PMID: 36070689 PMCID: PMC9887883 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Germline Argonautes direct transcriptome surveillance within perinuclear membraneless organelles called nuage. In C. elegans, a family of Vasa-related Germ Line Helicase (GLH) proteins localize in and promote the formation of nuage. Previous studies have implicated GLH proteins in inherited silencing, but direct roles in small-RNA production, Argonaute binding, or mRNA targeting have not been identified. Here we show that GLH proteins compete with each other to control Argonaute pathway specificity, bind directly to Argonaute target mRNAs, and promote the amplification of small RNAs required for transgenerational inheritance. We show that the ATPase cycle of GLH-1 regulates direct binding to the Argonaute WAGO-1, which engages amplified small RNAs. Our findings support a dynamic and direct role for GLH proteins in inherited silencing beyond their role as structural components of nuage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Dai
- RNA Therapeutic Institute, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Xiaoyin Tang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lili Li
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Takao Ishidate
- RNA Therapeutic Institute, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Ahmet R Ozturk
- RNA Therapeutic Institute, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Hao Chen
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Bioinformatics Program, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Altair L Dude
- RNA Therapeutic Institute, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Yong-Hong Yan
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Meng-Qiu Dong
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China
| | - En-Zhi Shen
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Craig C Mello
- RNA Therapeutic Institute, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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6
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Chen W, Hu Y, Lang CF, Brown JS, Schwabach S, Song X, Zhang Y, Munro E, Bennett K, Zhang D, Lee HC. The Dynamics of P Granule Liquid Droplets Are Regulated by the Caenorhabditis elegans Germline RNA Helicase GLH-1 via Its ATP Hydrolysis Cycle. Genetics 2020; 215:421-434. [PMID: 32245789 PMCID: PMC7268986 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.120.303052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
P granules are phase-separated liquid droplets that play important roles in the maintenance of germ cell fate in Caenorhabditis elegans Both the localization and formation of P granules are highly dynamic, but mechanisms that regulate such processes remain poorly understood. Here, we show evidence that the VASA-like germline RNA helicase GLH-1 couples distinct steps of its ATPase hydrolysis cycle to control the formation and disassembly of P granules. In addition, we found that the phenylalanine-glycine-glycine repeats in GLH-1 promote its localization at the perinucleus. Proteomic analyses of the GLH-1 complex with a GLH-1 mutation that interferes with P granule disassembly revealed transient interactions of GLH-1 with several Argonautes and RNA-binding proteins. Finally, we found that defects in recruiting the P granule component PRG-1 to perinuclear foci in the adult germline correlate with the fertility defects observed in various GLH-1 mutants. Together, our results highlight the versatile roles of an RNA helicase in controlling the formation of liquid droplets in space and time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Chen
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Yabing Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China 430074
| | - Charles F Lang
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Jordan S Brown
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Sierra Schwabach
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Xiaoyan Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, China 450052
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China 430074
| | - Edwin Munro
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Karen Bennett
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri 65212
| | - Donglei Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China 430074
| | - Heng-Chi Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637
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7
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Lejong M, Vanmuylder N, Choa-Duterre M, Louryan S. A reviewed chronology of primordial germ cells migration in the chick embryo. Morphologie 2020; 104:64-69. [PMID: 31519429 DOI: 10.1016/j.morpho.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primordial Germ Cells (PGCs) are present in all sexually reproducing animals. They differentiate into spermatozoa or oocytes and are therefore responsible for the transmission of genetic and epigenetic information across generations. In birds, PGCs are first observed in the center of the blastodisc at stage Eyal-Giladi X. With the formation of the primitive streak, germ cells are translocated anteriorly to the germinal crescent. At stage Hamburger- Hamilton 10-12, they enter the vasculature before migrating through the dorsal mesentery towards the genital ridges. MATERIAL AND METHODS Embryos from stages Hamburger-Hamilton (HH) 16 to 22 were collected. Blood samples were taken from the dorsal aorta and from the heart in order to perform blood smears and PAS staining. Embryos were dissected and fixed in Serra's medium. Sections were placed on slides for PAS staining. A sample of each embryo was collected for DNA extraction and PCR in order to determine the sex of the embryos. RESULTS PGCs were observed in blood circulation until stage HH 20 on blood smears and until stage HH 19 on histological sections. The first PGCs arrived in the genital ridges were observed from stage HH 17. A few germ cells were still migrating in the dorsal mesentery at stage HH 22. The aim of this study was to review the chronology of the migration of PGCs in chick embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Lejong
- Laboratoire d'Anatomie, Biomécanique et Organogenèse, faculté de médecine, université libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - N Vanmuylder
- Laboratoire d'Anatomie, Biomécanique et Organogenèse, faculté de médecine, université libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Choa-Duterre
- Laboratoire d'Anatomie, Biomécanique et Organogenèse, faculté de médecine, université libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Louryan
- Laboratoire d'Anatomie, Biomécanique et Organogenèse, faculté de médecine, université libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium.
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8
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Lejong M, Choa-Duterre M, Vanmuylder N, Louryan S. Is Vasa such a highly specific marker for primordial germ cells? A comparison of VASA and HSP90 proteins expression in young chicken embryos. Morphologie 2020; 104:20-26. [PMID: 32057659 DOI: 10.1016/j.morpho.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primordial germ cells (PGCs) have been studied since the 19th century with several different methods. The earliest works were based on the morphological criteria of these cells associated or not with a particular staining. Different markers have been proposed in immunohistochemistry among which we can quote the Stage-specific embryonic antigene-1 (SSEA-1), the embryonic mouse antigen-1 (EMA-1) or the heat shock protein 90. Unfortunately, none of them are germline specific. The VASA protein is considered as one of the most reliable marker for PGCs by some authors with its expression being considered to limited to the germ cells. However, other studies have reported its expression in somatic cells. Here, we described the expression of the heat shock protein, HSP90, and the VASA protein in the early chick embryo. MATERIAL AND METHODS Embryos from stages Hamburger-Hamilton (HH) 19, 21 and 28 were collected. Embryos were dissected and fixed in Serra's medium. Sections were placed on slides for PAS staining and for double immunohistochemistry with HSP90 and VASA. RESULTS VASA and HSP90 expression have been observed in germ cells but as well in other cell lineages with a spatio-temporal gradient in respect to the characteristics of development of each organ. The conclusion is that VASA expression is not limited to the germ line in chick embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Lejong
- Laboratoire d'anatomie, biomécanique et organogenèse, faculté de médecine, université Libre de Bruxelles, route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - M Choa-Duterre
- Laboratoire d'anatomie, biomécanique et organogenèse, faculté de médecine, université Libre de Bruxelles, route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - N Vanmuylder
- Laboratoire d'anatomie, biomécanique et organogenèse, faculté de médecine, université Libre de Bruxelles, route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - S Louryan
- Laboratoire d'anatomie, biomécanique et organogenèse, faculté de médecine, université Libre de Bruxelles, route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium.
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9
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Nakamura S, Hira S, Fujiwara M, Miyagata N, Tsuji T, Kondo A, Kimura H, Shinozuka Y, Hayashi M, Kobayashi S, Mukai M. A truncated form of a transcription factor Mamo activates vasa in Drosophila embryos. Commun Biol 2019; 2:422. [PMID: 31799425 PMCID: PMC6868150 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-019-0663-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Expression of the vasa gene is associated with germline establishment. Therefore, identification of vasa activator(s) should provide insights into germline development. However, the genes sufficient for vasa activation remain unknown. Previously, we showed that the BTB/POZ-Zn-finger protein Mamo is necessary for vasa expression in Drosophila. Here, we show that the truncated Mamo lacking the BTB/POZ domain (MamoAF) is a potent vasa activator. Overexpression of MamoAF was sufficient to induce vasa expression in both primordial germ cells and brain. Indeed, Mamo mRNA encoding a truncated Mamo isoform, which is similar to MamoAF, was predominantly expressed in primordial germ cells. The results of our genetic and biochemical studies showed that MamoAF, together with CBP, epigenetically activates vasa expression. Furthermore, MamoAF and the germline transcriptional activator OvoB exhibited synergy in activating vasa transcription. We propose that a Mamo-mediated network of epigenetic and transcriptional regulators activates vasa expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoichi Nakamura
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, 658-8501 Japan
- Graduate School of Natural Science, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
- Institute for Integrative Neurosciences, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Seiji Hira
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, 658-8501 Japan
- Graduate School of Natural Science, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
- Institute for Integrative Neurosciences, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, 444-8787 Japan
| | - Masato Fujiwara
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, 658-8501 Japan
- Graduate School of Natural Science, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Nasa Miyagata
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, 658-8501 Japan
- Graduate School of Natural Science, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takuma Tsuji
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, 658-8501 Japan
- Graduate School of Natural Science, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Akane Kondo
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, 658-8501 Japan
- Graduate School of Natural Science, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Cell Biology Center, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, 226-8503 Japan
| | - Yuko Shinozuka
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577 Japan
| | - Makoto Hayashi
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577 Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8572 Japan
| | - Satoru Kobayashi
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577 Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8572 Japan
| | - Masanori Mukai
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, 658-8501 Japan
- Graduate School of Natural Science, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
- Institute for Integrative Neurosciences, Konan University, Kobe, Japan
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10
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Aduma N, Izumi H, Mizushima S, Kuroiwa A. Knockdown of DEAD-box helicase 4 (DDX4) decreases the number of germ cells in male and female chicken embryonic gonads. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:847-854. [DOI: 10.1071/rd18266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
DEAD-box helicase 4 (DDX4; also known as vasa) is essential for the proper formation and maintenance of germ cells. Although DDX4 is conserved in a variety of vertebrates and invertebrates, its roles differ between species. This study investigated the function of DDX4 in chicken embryos by knocking down its expression using retroviral vectors that encoded DDX4-targeting microRNAs. DDX4 was effectively depleted invitro and invivo via this approach. Male and female gonads of DDX4-knockdown embryos contained a decreased number of primordial germ cells, indicating that DDX4 is essential to maintain a normal level of these cells in chicken embryos of both sexes. Expression of doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 1 (DMRT1) and sex determining region Y-box 9 (SOX9), which are involved in testis determination and differentiation, was normal in male gonads of DDX4-knockdown embryos. In contrast, expression of cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 (CYP19A1), which encodes aromatase and is essential for ovary development, was significantly decreased in female gonads of DDX4-knockdown embryos. Expression of forkhead box L2 (FOXL2), which plays an important role in ovary differentiation, was also slightly reduced in DDX4-knockdown embryos, but not significantly. Based on several pieces of evidence FOXL2 was hypothesised to regulate aromatase expression. The results of this study indicate that aromatase expression is also regulated by several additional pathways.
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Wang Z, Li J, Cao D, Liu X, Zhu D. Generation and Application of Male Mice with Specific Expression of Green Fluorescent Protein in Germ Cells. Mol Imaging Biol 2017; 18:659-66. [PMID: 27020678 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-016-0947-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to generate a mouse line with green fluorescent protein (GFP) specifically expressed in male germ cells to assess testicular toxicity. PROCEDURES The mouse line with GFP specifically expressed in male germ cells was generated by mating a germ cell-specific transgenic Cre male mouse with a double-fluorescent reporter female mouse using Cre/loxP. The mouse line was administered ethylene glycol monomethyl ether (EGME) by oral gavage. Then, the green fluorescence intensity in the testes was used as an indicator to examine the potential for testicular toxicity testing by molecular biology, histopathology, and in vivo imaging techniques. RESULTS Specific testicular GFP expression was observed in mice. GFP was mainly expressed in the germ cell lineage and concentrated in secondary spermatocytes/spermatocytes and spermatozoa. After administration of EGME, at the organ level, the green fluorescent intensity of the testes was decreased by 11 days and had disappeared by 34 days. Frozen testicular sections stained with DAPI showed significantly decreased green fluorescence in secondary spermatocytes and sperm cells. These observations were consistent with the testis weight and results of testicular histopathology. CONCLUSIONS With the application of in vivo imaging becoming popular, this mouse line with GFP specifically expressed in the male germ cells may have some advantages for the study of reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiru Wang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Peking University, 5 Yiheyuan Road, Beijing, 100871, China
- School of Public Health, Jilin University, 1163 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jun Li
- Laboratory Animal Center, Peking University, 5 Yiheyuan Road, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Dong Cao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Peking University, 5 Yiheyuan Road, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xiaomei Liu
- School of Public Health, Jilin University, 1163 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China.
| | - Desheng Zhu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Peking University, 5 Yiheyuan Road, Beijing, 100871, China.
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12
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Li W, Zhang P, Wu X, Zhu X, Xu H. A Novel Dynamic Expression of vasa in Male Germ Cells during Spermatogenesis in the Chinese Soft-Shell Turtle (Pelidiscus sinensis
). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2017; 328:230-239. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.22728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Piaoyi Zhang
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
- College of Fisheries and Life Science; Shanghai Ocean University; Shanghai People's Republic of China
| | - Xuling Wu
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
- College of Fisheries and Life Science; Shanghai Ocean University; Shanghai People's Republic of China
| | - Xinping Zhu
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
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13
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Tagami T, Miyahara D, Nakamura Y. Avian Primordial Germ Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1001:1-18. [PMID: 28980226 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-3975-1_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Germ cells transmit genetic information to the next generation through gametogenesis. Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the first germ-cell population established during development, and are the common origins of both oocytes and spermatogonia. Unlike in other species, PGCs in birds undergo blood circulation to migrate toward the genital ridge, and are one of the major biological properties of avian PGCs. Germ cells enter meiosis and arrest at prophase I during embryogenesis in females, whereas in males they enter mitotic arrest during embryogenesis and enter meiosis only after birth. In chicken, gonadal sex differentiation occurs as early as embryonic day 6, but meiotic initiation of female germ cells starts from a relatively late stage (embryonic day 15.5). Retinoic acid controls meiotic entry in developing chicken gonads through the expressions of retinaldehyde dehydrogenase 2, a major retinoic acid synthesizing enzyme, and cytochrome P450 family 26, subfamily B member 1, a major retinoic acid-degrading enzyme. The other major biological property of avian PGCs is that they can be propagated in vitro for the long term, and this technique is useful for investigating proliferation mechanisms. The main factor involved in chicken PGC proliferation is fibroblast growth factor 2, which activates the signaling of MEK/ERK and thus promotes the cell cycle and anti-apoptosis. Furthermore, the activation of PI3K/Akt signaling is indispensable for the proliferation and survival of chicken PGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Tagami
- Institute of Livestock Grassland Science, NARO, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Daichi Miyahara
- Institute of Livestock Grassland Science, NARO, Ibaraki, Japan
- Shinshu University, Ueda, Japan
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14
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Poon J, Wessel GM, Yajima M. An unregulated regulator: Vasa expression in the development of somatic cells and in tumorigenesis. Dev Biol 2016; 415:24-32. [PMID: 27179696 PMCID: PMC4902722 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2015] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence in diverse organisms shows that genes originally thought to function uniquely in the germ line may also function in somatic cells, and in some cases even contribute to tumorigenesis. Here we review the somatic functions of Vasa, one of the most conserved "germ line" factors among metazoans. Vasa expression in somatic cells is tightly regulated and often transient during normal development, and appears to play essential roles in regulation of embryonic cells and regenerative tissues. Its dysregulation, however, is believed to be an important element of tumorigenic cell regulation. In this perspectives paper, we propose how some conserved functions of Vasa may be selected for somatic cell regulation, including its potential impact on efficient and localized translational activities and in some cases on cellular malfunctioning and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Poon
- MCB Department, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, BOX-GL173, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Gary M Wessel
- MCB Department, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, BOX-GL173, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Mamiko Yajima
- MCB Department, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, BOX-GL173, Providence, RI 02912, USA.
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15
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Abstract
Primordial germ cells are the progenitor cells that give rise to the gametes. In some animals, the germline is induced by zygotic transcription factors, whereas in others, primordial germ cell specification occurs via inheritance of maternally provided gene products known as germ plasm. Once specified, the primordial germ cells of some animals must acquire motility and migrate to the gonad in order to survive. In all animals examined, perinuclear structures called germ granules form within germ cells. This review focuses on some of the recent studies, conducted by several groups using diverse systems, from invertebrates to vertebrates, which have provided mechanistic insight into the molecular regulation of germ cell specification and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Marlow
- Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
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16
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Gonadal transcriptomic analysis and differentially expressed genes in the testis and ovary of the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). BMC Genomics 2015; 16:1006. [PMID: 26607692 PMCID: PMC4659196 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-2219-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) is the world’s most prevalent cultured crustacean species. However, the supply of high-quality broodstocks is limited and baseline information related to its reproductive activity and molecular issues related to gonad development are scarce. In this study, we performed transcriptome sequencing on the gonads of adult male and female L. vannamei to identify sex-related genes. Results A total of 25.16 gigabases (Gb) of sequences were generated from four L. vannamei gonadal tissue libraries. After quality control, 24.11 Gb of clean reads were selected from the gonadal libraries. De-novo assembly of all the clean reads generated a total of 65,218 unigenes with a mean size of 1021 bp and a N50 of 2000 bp. A search of all-unigene against Nr, SwissProt, KEGG, COG and NT databases resulted in 26,482, 23,062, 20,659, 11,935 and 14,626 annotations, respectively, providing a total of 30,304 annotated unigenes. Among annotated unigenes, 12,320 unigenes were assigned to gene ontology categories and 20,659 unigenes were mapped to 258 KEGG pathways. By comparing the ovary and testis libraries, 19,279 testicular up-regulated and 3,529 ovarian up-regulated unigenes were identified. Enrichment analysis of differentially expressed unigenes resulted in 1060 significantly enriched GO terms and 34 significantly enriched KEGG pathways. Nine ovary-specific, 6 testis-specific, 45 testicular up-regulated and 39 ovarian up-regulated unigenes were then confirmed by semi-quantitative PCR and quantitative real-time PCR. In addition, using all-unigenes as a reference, a total of 13,233 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were identified in 10,411 unigene sequences. Conclusions The present study depicts the first large-scale RNA sequencing of shrimp gonads. We have identified many important sex-related functional genes, GO terms and pathways, all of which will facilitate future research into the reproductive biology of shrimp. We expect that the SSRs detected in this study can then be used as genetic markers for germplasm evaluation of breeding and imported populations. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-015-2219-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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17
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Nakamura Y, Iwasaki T, Umei Y, Saotome K, Nakajima Y, Kitahara S, Uno Y, Matsuda Y, Oike A, Kodama M, Nakamura M. Molecular cloning and characterization of oocyte-specific Pat1a in Rana rugosa frogs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 323:516-26. [PMID: 26136381 DOI: 10.1002/jez.1938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The Pat1 gene is expressed in the immature oocytes of Xenopus, and is reportedly involved in regulating the translation of maternal mRNAs required for oocyte-maturation. However, it is still unknown when Pat1a first appears in the differentiating ovary of amphibians. To address this issue, we isolated the full-length Pat1a cDNA from the frog Rana rugosa and examined its expression in the differentiating ovary of this frog. Among eight different tissues examined, the Pat1a mRNA was detectable in only the ovary. When frozen sections from the ovaries of tadpoles at various stages of development were immunostained for Vasa-a germ cell-specific protein-and Pat1a, Vasa-immunopositive signals were observed in all of the germ cells, whereas Pat1a signals were confined to the growing oocytes (50-200 μm in diameter), and absent from small germ cells (<50 μm in diameter). Forty days after testosterone injection into tadpoles to induce female-to-male sex-reversal, Pat1a-immunoreactive oocytes had disappeared completely from the sex-reversed gonad, but Vasa-positive small germ cells persisted. Thus, Pat1a would be a good marker for identifying the sexual status of the sex-reversing gonad in amphibians. In addition, fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis showed Pat1a to have an autosomal locus, suggesting that Pat1a transcription is probably regulated by a tissue-specific transcription factor in R. rugosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoriko Nakamura
- Department of Science Education, Faculty of Education, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takehiro Iwasaki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Umei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Saotome
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukiko Nakajima
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shoichi Kitahara
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Uno
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yoichi Matsuda
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Akira Oike
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maho Kodama
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahisa Nakamura
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, Waseda University, Wakamatsu-cho, Tokyo, Japan
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18
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Ragle JM, Katzman S, Akers TF, Barberan-Soler S, Zahler AM. Coordinated tissue-specific regulation of adjacent alternative 3' splice sites in C. elegans. Genome Res 2015; 25:982-94. [PMID: 25922281 PMCID: PMC4484395 DOI: 10.1101/gr.186783.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Adjacent alternative 3′ splice sites, those separated by ≤18 nucleotides, provide a unique problem in the study of alternative splicing regulation; there is overlap of the cis-elements that define the adjacent sites. Identification of the intron's 3′ end depends upon sequence elements that define the branchpoint, polypyrimidine tract, and terminal AG dinucleotide. Starting with RNA-seq data from germline-enriched and somatic cell-enriched Caenorhabditis elegans samples, we identify hundreds of introns with adjacent alternative 3′ splice sites. We identify 203 events that undergo tissue-specific alternative splicing. For these, the regulation is monodirectional, with somatic cells preferring to splice at the distal 3′ splice site (furthest from the 5′ end of the intron) and germline cells showing a distinct shift toward usage of the adjacent proximal 3′ splice site (closer to the 5′ end of the intron). Splicing patterns in somatic cells follow C. elegans consensus rules of 3′ splice site definition; a short stretch of pyrimidines preceding an AG dinucleotide. Splicing in germline cells occurs at proximal 3′ splice sites that lack a preceding polypyrimidine tract, and in three instances the germline-specific site lacks the AG dinucleotide. We provide evidence that use of germline-specific proximal 3′ splice sites is conserved across Caenorhabditis species. We propose that there are differences between germline and somatic cells in the way that the basal splicing machinery functions to determine the intron terminus.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Matthew Ragle
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology and The Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - Sol Katzman
- Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - Taylor F Akers
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology and The Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - Sergio Barberan-Soler
- Gene Regulation, Stem Cells, and Cancer Program, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alan M Zahler
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology and The Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
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19
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Diao Y, Hua M, Shao Y, Huang W, Liu M, Ren C, Ji Y, Chen J, Shen J. Preliminary characterization and expression of Vasa-like gene in Schistosoma japonicum. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:2679-87. [PMID: 25899325 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4473-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The Vasa gene is a vital germline marker to study the origin and development of germ cells and gonads in many organisms. Until now, little information was available about the characteristics of the Vasa gene in Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum). In this study, we cloned the open reading frame (ORF) of the S. japonicum Vasa-like gene (Sj-Vasa). The expression pattern and tissue localization of Sj-Vasa were also analyzed. Our results showed that Sj-Vasa shared the general feature of DEAD-box family member proteins. Sj-Vasa was transcribed and expressed throughout the S. japonicum life cycle with transcription exhibiting high levels at day 24 in both male and female worms, and the expression level in the female was always higher than that in the male. Sj-Vasa protein was localized in a variety of tissues of adult schistosomes, including the gonads (ovary, vitellarium, and testes), the subtegument, and some cells of the parenchyma. To our knowledge, this is the first report of preliminary characterization and expression of the Vasa-like gene that may play an important role in the development of the worm, especially in reproductive organs of S. japonicum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Diao
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, 81# Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, People's Republic of China
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20
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Dalvin S, Nilsen F, Skern-Mauritzen R. Localization and transcription patterns of LsVasa, a molecular marker of germ cells inLepeophtheirus salmonis(Krøyer). J NAT HIST 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2012.738830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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21
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Nakamura Y, Kagami H, Tagami T. Development, differentiation and manipulation of chicken germ cells. Dev Growth Differ 2013; 55:20-40. [DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Revised: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hiroshi Kagami
- Faculty of Agriculture; Shinshu University; 8304; Minamiminowa; Nagano; 399-4598; Japan
| | - Takahiro Tagami
- Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research Division; NARO Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science; 2 Ikenodai; Tsukuba; Ibaraki; 305-0901; Japan
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22
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Wang JT, Seydoux G. Germ cell specification. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2013; 757:17-39. [PMID: 22872473 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-4015-4_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The germline of Caenorhabditis elegans derives from a single founder cell, the germline blastomere P(4). P(4) is the product of four asymmetric cleavages that divide the zygote into distinct somatic and germline (P) lineages. P(4) inherits a specialized cytoplasm ("germ plasm") containing maternally encoded proteins and RNAs. The germ plasm has been hypothesized to specify germ cell fate, but the mechanisms involved remain unclear. Three processes stand out: (1) inhibition of mRNA transcription to prevent activation of somatic development, (2) translational regulation of the nanos homolog nos-2 and of other germ plasm mRNAs, and (3) establishment of a unique, partially repressive chromatin. Together, these processes ensure that the daughters of P(4), the primordial germ cells Z2 and Z3, gastrulate inside the embryo, associate with the somatic gonad, initiate the germline transcriptional program, and proliferate during larval development to generate ∼2,000 germ cells by adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer T Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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23
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Voronina E. The diverse functions of germline P-granules in Caenorhabditis elegans. Mol Reprod Dev 2012; 80:624-31. [PMID: 23150384 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 11/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
P-granules are conserved cytoplasmic organelles, similar to nuage, that are present in Caenorhabditis elegans germ cells. Based on the prevailing sterility phenotype of the component mutants, P-granules have been seen as regulators of germ cell development and function. Yet, specific germline defects resulting from P-granule failure vary, depending on which component(s) are inactivated, at which stage of development, as well as on the presence of stress factors during animal culture. This review discusses the unifying themes in many P-granule functions, with the main focus on their role as organizing centers nucleating RNA regulation in the germ cell cytoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Voronina
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana 59812, USA.
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24
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Qiu GF, Chen Y, Cui Z, Zhu XL. Localization of germline marker vasa homolog RNA to a single blastomere at early cleavage stages in the oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense: evidence for germ cell specification by preformation. Gene 2012; 513:53-62. [PMID: 23154059 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.10.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2012] [Revised: 10/29/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Germ cells are specified by the inheritance of maternal germline determinants (preformation mode) or inductive signals from somatic cells (epigenesis mode) during embryogenesis. However, the germline specification in decapod crustaceans is unclear so far. Using vasa homolog (MnVasa) as a germ cell marker, here we probed the early events of germline specification in the oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of unfertilized eggs and embryos demonstrated that the prawn MnVasa mRNA is a maternal factor. Whole-mount in situ hybridization further indicated that MnVasa transcripts are maternally supplied to only one blastomere at the very early cleavage stages. As cleavage proceeds, the MnVasa-positive blastomere undergoes proliferation and increases in number. During gastrulation, the MnVasa-positive cells are found to be around a blastopore and could migrate into an embryo through the blastopore. At the zoea stage, clusters of the MnVasa-positive cells distribute not only in the gonad rudiment in the cephalothorax but also at an extragonadic site, dorsal to the posterior hindgut in the abdomen, suggesting that MnVasa-positive cells could migrate anteriorly to the genital rudiment through the hindgut. Based on the dynamic localization and number of MnVasa-positive cells during embryogenesis, we concluded that the MnVasa-positive cells are primordial germ cells (PGC) or founder cells of PGC that are separated from soma at the early cleavage stage. MnVasa mRNA might have a key function in the specification of the prawn germline cells as a maternal determinant. These results provide the first evidence that the germline specification in decapod crustaceans follows a preformation mode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gao-Feng Qiu
- Key laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources Certificated by Ministry of Agriculture, College of Fisheries and Life Science, Shanghai Ocean University, 999 Hucheng Huan Road, Pudong New area, Shanghai 201306, PR China.
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Salinas LS, Franco-Cea A, Láscarez-Lagunas LI, Villanueva-Chimal E, Maldonado E, Navarro RE. Germ cell survival in C. elegans and C. remanei is affected when the DEAD box RNA helicases VBH-1 or Cre-VBH-1 are silenced. Genesis 2012; 50:801-18. [PMID: 22674898 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.22043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Revised: 05/27/2012] [Accepted: 06/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The Vasa family of proteins comprises several conserved DEAD box RNA helicases important for mRNA regulation whose exact function in the germline is still unknown. In Caenorhabditis elegans, there are six known members of the Vasa family, and all of them are associated with P granules. One of these proteins, VBH-1, is important for oogenesis, spermatogenesis, embryo development, and the oocyte/sperm switch in this nematode. We decided to extend our previous work in C. elegans to sibling species Caenorhabditis remanei to understand what is the function of the VBH-1 homolog in this gonochoristic species. We found that Cre-VBH-1 is present in the cytoplasm of germ cells and it remains associated with P granules throughout the life cycle of C. remanei. Several aspects between VBH-1 and Cre-VBH-1 function are conserved like their role during oogenesis, spermatogenesis, and embryonic development. However, Cre-vbh-1 silencing in C. remanei had a stronger effect on spermatogenesis and spermatid activation than in C. elegans. An unexpected finding was that silencing of vbh-1 in the C. elegans caused a decrease in germ cell apoptosis in the hermaphrodite gonad, while silencing of Cre-vbh-1 in C. remanei elicited germ cell apoptosis in the male gonad. These data suggest that VBH-1 might play a role in germ cell survival in both species albeit it appears to have an opposite role in each one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura S Salinas
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Desarrollo, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior s/n Ciudad Universitaria, México DF, 04510, México
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26
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Wang Q, Fang DA, Sun JL, Wang Y, Wang J, Liu LH. Characterization of the vasa gene in the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis: a germ line molecular marker. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2012; 58:960-965. [PMID: 22562064 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2012.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Revised: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The vasa gene first identified in Drosophila encodes an ATP-dependent RNA helicase belonging to the DEAD-box family and is specifically expressed in germ line cells. In this study a full-length vasa gene homolog from the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) was characterized, comprising of 2369 bp nucleotides with an open reading frame of 1866 bp encoding 621 amino acids. The putative protein was shown to contain eight conserved motifs belonging to the DEAD-box protein family and two zinc-finger domains (CCHC) and a Q-motif. Its sequence showed high similarity to vasa homologs of other species. The E. sinensis vasa (Es-vasa) mRNA expression was specific to the gonad and its temporal expression in the ovary and testes were significantly different between various developmental periods. By real-time qPCR analysis, Es-vasa mRNA transcripts were at the highest levels during periods of rapid development in the gonads (stage III-2 in ovaries and spermatocyte stage in testes) and gradually decreased as the gonads matured. In conclusion, we first identified the vasa gene from Chinese mitten crab. The specificity and pattern of Es-vasa expression in gonads indicates that it may be used as molecular marker for germ line in E. sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Wang
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, China.
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27
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Skinner DE, Rinaldi G, Suttiprapa S, Mann VH, Smircich P, Cogswell AA, Williams DL, Brindley PJ. Vasa-Like DEAD-Box RNA Helicases of Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1686. [PMID: 22720105 PMCID: PMC3373655 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 04/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome sequences are available for the human blood flukes, Schistosoma japonicum, S. mansoni and S. haematobium. Functional genomic approaches could aid in identifying the role and importance of these newly described schistosome genes. Transgenesis is established for functional genomics in model species, which can lead to gain- or loss-of-functions, facilitate vector-based RNA interference, and represents an effective forward genetics tool for insertional mutagenesis screens. Progress toward routine transgenesis in schistosomes might be expedited if germ cells could be reliably localized in cultured schistosomes. Vasa, a member of the ATP-dependent DEAD-box RNA helicase family, is a prototypic marker of primordial germ cells and the germ line in the Metazoa. Using bioinformatics, 33 putative DEAD-box RNA helicases exhibiting conserved motifs that characterize helicases of this family were identified in the S. mansoni genome. Moreover, three of the helicases exhibited vasa-like sequences; phylogenetic analysis confirmed the three vasa-like genes-termed Smvlg1, Smvlg2, and Smvlg3-were members of the Vasa/PL10 DEAD-box subfamily. Transcripts encoding Smvlg1, Smvlg2, and Smvlg3 were cloned from cDNAs from mixed sex adult worms, and quantitative real time PCR revealed their presence in developmental stages of S. mansoni with elevated expression in sporocysts, adult females, eggs, and miracidia, with strikingly high expression in the undeveloped egg. Whole mount in situ hybridization (WISH) analysis revealed that Smvlg1, Smvlg2 and Smvlg3 were transcribed in the posterior ovary where the oocytes mature. Germ cell specific expression of schistosome vasa-like genes should provide an informative landmark for germ line transgenesis of schistosomes, etiologic agents of major neglected tropical diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle E. Skinner
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, D. C., United States of America
| | - Gabriel Rinaldi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, D. C., United States of America
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, (UDELAR), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Sutas Suttiprapa
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Victoria H. Mann
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, D. C., United States of America
| | - Pablo Smircich
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, (UDELAR), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Alexis A. Cogswell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - David L. Williams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Paul J. Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, D. C., United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Tuteja R, Ansari A, Anita, Suthar MK, Saxena JK. Genome wide computational analysis of Brugia malayi helicases: A comparison with human host. Gene X 2012; 499:202-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2011] [Revised: 02/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Gao G, Deeb F, Mercurio JM, Parfenova A, Smith PA, Bennett KL. PAN-1, a P-granule component important for C. elegans fertility, has dual roles in the germline and soma. Dev Biol 2012; 364:202-13. [PMID: 22342905 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2012.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2011] [Revised: 01/17/2012] [Accepted: 02/05/2012] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In Caenorhabditis elegans, P granules are germline-specific, RNA-containing granules that segregate into the germline precursor cell during early embryogenesis. In this short report, PAN-1, which previously has been found by others in screens for genes causing larval molting defects, is identified here as a novel P-granule component and a binding partner of GLH-1 (Germline RNA Helicase-1), a constitutive, germline-specific, P-granule protein. The PAN-1 predicted protein contains multiple leucine-rich repeats (LRRs) and regions with similarities to F-box proteins. Antibodies raised against PAN-1 reveal it is present both in the soma and the germline. In the germline, PAN-1 uniquely localizes to P granules from the first larval stage onward and is unusual for a P-granule component in lacking recognizable RNA binding motifs. Homozygous pan-1(gk142) deletion worms arrest as larvae that are unable to molt and this phenotype is also seen with pan-1(RNAi) into wild type worms. pan-1(RNAi) into the somatic RNAi-defective strain rrf-1(pk1417) bypasses the larval arrest and allows an assessment of PAN-1 function in the germline. We find pan-1(RNAi) is variably effective in knocking down PAN-1 protein and results in adult progeny that display multiple germline defects. These phenocopies range from under-proliferation of the germline, as also seen with loss of GLH-1, to the induction of endomitotic replication in oocytes, both defects that result in sterility, to fertile animals with significantly reduced progeny numbers. Thus, while loss of PAN-1 in the soma inhibits molting, this report demonstrates that PAN-1 is also a P-granule component that is essential for fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Gao
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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30
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Singh M, Singh PK, Misra-Bhattacharya S. RNAi mediated silencing of ATPase RNA helicase gene in adult filarial parasite Brugia malayi impairs in vitro microfilaria release and adult parasite viability. J Biotechnol 2011; 157:351-8. [PMID: 22192512 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2011.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2011] [Revised: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The DExD/H box families of RNA helicases are a multifunctional group of proteins involved in unwinding of inter- and intra-molecular base-paired regions. Successful knockdown of DEAD box RNA helicase gene (BmL3-Helicase) of human lymphatic filarial parasite Brugia malayi was done with specifically designed and chemically synthesized siRNA of <20bp to observe the role of enzyme in parasite biology and its worth as an antifilarial drug target. We made efforts to deliver siRNA into parasite by both electroporation and soaking that resulted into diminished helicase gene expression associated with decreased parasite motility, viability (97%) and release of microfilariae (81.0% reduction) from adult females in vitro. The specific gene knockdown also resulted into death of adult male worms in addition to phenotypic deformities in female worm intrauterine stages. RT-PCR of siRNA treated worms revealed a complete knockdown of BmL3-Helicase transcription within 16h. The present findings thus illustrate that targeting helicase gene of B. malayi would not only interfere with embryogenesis and microfilarial production but also result into decreased motility and viability of microfilariae and adult parasites. The B. malayi helicase enzyme thus represents a possible antifilarial drug target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghna Singh
- Division of Parasitology, Central Drug Research Institute, CSIR, M.G. Marg, Lucknow 226001 (U.P.), India
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31
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Putiri E, Pelegri F. The zebrafish maternal-effect gene mission impossible encodes the DEAH-box helicase Dhx16 and is essential for the expression of downstream endodermal genes. Dev Biol 2011; 353:275-89. [PMID: 21396359 PMCID: PMC3088167 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2011.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2010] [Revised: 01/26/2011] [Accepted: 03/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Early animal embryonic development requires maternal products that drive developmental processes prior to the activation of the zygotic genome at the mid-blastula transition. During and after this transition, maternal products may continue to act within incipient zygotic developmental programs. Mechanisms that control maternally-inherited products to spatially and temporally restrict developmental responses remain poorly understood, but necessarily depend on posttranscriptional regulation. We report the functional analysis and molecular identification of the zebrafish maternal-effect gene mission impossible (mis). Our studies suggest requirements for maternally-derived mis function in events that occur during gastrulation, including cell movement and the activation of some endodermal target genes. Cell transplantation experiments show that the cell movement defect is cell autonomous. Within the endoderm induction pathway, mis is not required for the activation of early zygotic genes, but is essential to implement nodal activity downstream of casanova/sox 32 but upstream of sox17 expression. Activation of nodal signaling in blastoderm explants shows that the requirement for mis function in endoderm gene induction is independent of the underlying yolk cell. Positional cloning of mis, including genetic rescue and complementation analysis, shows that it encodes the DEAH-box RNA helicase Dhx16, shown in other systems to act in RNA regulatory processes such as splicing and translational control. Analysis of a previously identified insertional dhx16 mutation shows that the zygotic component of this gene is also essential for embryonic viability. Our studies provide a striking example of the interweaving of maternal and zygotic genetic functions during the egg-to-embryo transition. Maternal RNA helicases have long been known to be involved in the development of the animal germ line, but our findings add to growing evidence that these factors may also control specific gene expression programs in somatic tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Putiri
- Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin - Madison, 425-G Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Francisco Pelegri
- Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin - Madison, 425-G Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706
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32
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Zimmer SL, McEvoy SM, Li J, Qu J, Read LK. A novel member of the RNase D exoribonuclease family functions in mitochondrial guide RNA metabolism in Trypanosoma brucei. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:10329-40. [PMID: 21252235 PMCID: PMC3060487 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.152439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2010] [Revised: 01/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA turnover and RNA editing are essential for regulation of mitochondrial gene expression in Trypanosoma brucei. RNA turnover is controlled in part by RNA 3' adenylation and uridylation status, with trans-acting factors also impacting RNA homeostasis. However, little is known about the mitochondrial degradation machinery or its regulation in T. brucei. We have identified a mitochondrial exoribonuclease, TbRND, whose expression is highly up-regulated in the insect proliferative stage of the parasite. TbRND shares sequence similarity with RNase D family enzymes but differs from all reported members of this family in possessing a CCHC zinc finger domain. In vitro, TbRND exhibits 3' to 5' exoribonuclease activity, with specificity toward uridine homopolymers, including the 3' oligo(U) tails of guide RNAs (gRNAs) that provide the sequence information for RNA editing. Several lines of evidence generated from RNAi-mediated knockdown and overexpression cell lines indicate that TbRND functions in gRNA metabolism in vivo. First, TbRND depletion results in gRNA tails extended by 2-3 nucleotides on average. Second, overexpression of wild type but not catalytically inactive TbRND results in a substantial decrease in the total gRNA population and a consequent inhibition of RNA editing. The observed effects on the gRNA population are specific as rRNAs, which are also 3'-uridylated, are unaffected by TbRND depletion or overexpression. Finally, we show that gRNA binding proteins co-purify with TbRND. In summary, TbRND is a novel 3' to 5' exoribonuclease that appears to have evolved a function highly specific to the mitochondrion of trypanosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara L. Zimmer
- From the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14214 and
| | - Sarah M. McEvoy
- From the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14214 and
| | - Jun Li
- the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Amherst, New York 14260
| | - Jun Qu
- the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Amherst, New York 14260
| | - Laurie K. Read
- From the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14214 and
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Gustafson EA, Wessel GM. Vasa genes: emerging roles in the germ line and in multipotent cells. Bioessays 2011; 32:626-37. [PMID: 20586054 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201000001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Sexually reproducing metazoans establish a cell lineage during development that is ultimately dedicated to gamete production. Work in a variety of animals suggests that a group of conserved molecular determinants act in this germ line maintenance and function. The most universal of these genes are Vasa and Vasa-like DEAD-box RNA helicase genes. However, recent evidence indicates that Vasa genes also function in other cell types, distinct from the germ line. Here we evaluate our current understanding of Vasa function and its regulation during development, addressing Vasa's emerging role in multipotent cells. We also explore the evolutionary diversification of the N-terminal domain of this gene and how this impacts the association of Vasa with nuage-like perinuclear structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Gustafson
- Providence Institute of Molecular Oogenesis Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry Brown University Providence, RI 02912, USA
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Beshore EL, McEwen TJ, Jud MC, Marshall JK, Schisa JA, Bennett KL. C. elegans Dicer interacts with the P-granule component GLH-1 and both regulate germline RNPs. Dev Biol 2010; 350:370-81. [PMID: 21146518 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2010.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2010] [Revised: 11/19/2010] [Accepted: 12/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
P granules, ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes specific to the cytoplasmic side of the nuclear pores of Caenorhabditis elegans germ cells, are implicated in post-transcriptional control of maternally-transcribed mRNAs. Here we show a relationship in C. elegans of Dicer, the riboendonuclease processing enzyme of the RNA interference and microRNA pathways, with GLH-1, a germline-specific RNA helicase and a constitutive component of P granules. Based on results from GST-pull-downs and immunoprecipitations, GLH-1 binds DCR-1 and this binding does not require RNA. Both GLH-1 protein and glh-1 mRNA levels are reduced in the dcr-1(ok247) null mutant background; conversely, a reduction of DCR-1 protein is observed in the glh-1(gk100) deletion strain. Thus, in the C. elegans germline, DCR-1 and GLH-1 are interdependent. In addition, evidence indicates that DCR-1 protein levels, like those of GLH-1, are likely regulated by the Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), KGB-1. In adult germ cells, DCR-1 is found in uniformly-distributed, small puncta both throughout the cytoplasm and the nucleus, on the inner side of nuclear pores, and associated with P granules. In arrested oocytes, GLH-1 and DCR-1 re-localize to cytoplasmic and cortically-distributed RNP granules and are necessary to recruit other components to these complexes. We predict that the GLH-1/DCR-1 complex may function in the transport, deposition, or regulation of maternally-transcribed mRNAs and their associated miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L Beshore
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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35
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Obata M, Sano N, Kimata S, Nagasawa K, Yoshizaki G, Komaru A. The proliferation and migration of immature germ cells in the mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis: observation of the expression pattern in the M. galloprovincialis vasa-like gene (Myvlg) by in situ hybridization. Dev Genes Evol 2010; 220:139-49. [PMID: 20725841 DOI: 10.1007/s00427-010-0335-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2010] [Accepted: 07/24/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In bivalve, the distribution of primordial germ cells can be traced from early embryogenesis to the veliger larva by the expression of the vasa ortholog. However, the distribution of germ cells from metamorphosis to maturation in bivalves has not been examined extensively. In this study, we used in situ hybridization to observe expression of the Mytilus galloprovincialis vasa-like gene (Myvlg). The distribution of germ cells was clarified in immature mussels. We observed germ cells in adult mussels during the non-reproductive and reproductive seasons. Myvlg was specifically expressed in germ cells. Gametogenesis occurs in acini surrounded by connective tissue. Myvlg expression was detected in spermatogonia, spermatocytes, oogonia, and oocytes. In the non-reproductive season, gametes were not observed in the acini, but Myvlg was expressed in germinal stem cells along the acini. The expression intensity in the non-reproductive season, however, was much weaker than that in the reproductive season. Myvlg-positive cells proliferated during the non-reproductive season. In immature mussels, a pair of germ cell clumps was distributed laterally in the connective tissue between the nephric tubules and posterior byssal retractor muscle. Germ cells were also observed along pericardium. When immature mussels grew, a pair of germ cell clumps migrated anteriorly in the connective tissue along the outer epithelium at the dorsal region of the mantle base between the mantle and gill. The number of germ cells increased significantly as the mussels grew. This is the first report to observe the proliferation and migration of germ cells in immature mussels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayu Obata
- Faculty of Bioresources, Mie University, 1577 Kurimamachiya, Tsu, Mie, 514-8507, Japan.
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36
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Bezares-Calderón LA, Becerra A, Salinas LS, Maldonado E, Navarro RE. Bioinformatic analysis of P granule-related proteins: insights into germ granule evolution in nematodes. Dev Genes Evol 2010; 220:41-52. [PMID: 20532558 DOI: 10.1007/s00427-010-0327-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2010] [Accepted: 05/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Germ cells in many animals possess a specialized cytoplasm in the form of granules that contain RNA and protein complexes essential for the function and preservation of the germline. The mechanism for the formation of these granules is still poorly understood; however, the lack of conservation in their components across different species suggests evolutionary convergence in the assembly process. Germ granules are assumed to be present in all nematodes with a preformed germline. However, few studies have clearly identified these structures in species other than Caenorhabditis elegans and even less have carried functional analysis to provide a broader panorama of the granules composition in the phylum. We adopted a bioinformatics approach to investigate the extension of conservation in nematodes of some known C. elegans germ granule components, as a proxy to understand germ granules evolution in this phylum. Unexpectedly, we found that, in nematodes, the DEAD box RNA helicase Vasa, a conserved protein among different phyla, shows a complex history of clade-specific duplications and sequence divergence. Our analyses suggest that, in nematodes, Vasa's function might be shared among proteins like LAF-1, VBH-1, and GLH-1/-2/-3 and GLH-4. Key components of P granules assembly in C. elegans, like the PGL protein family, are only preserved in Caenorhabditis species. Our analysis suggests that germ granules assembly may not be conserved in nematodes. Studies on these species could bring insight into the basic components required for this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Bezares-Calderón
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Desarrollo, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México 04510
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Saotome K, Hayashi K, Adachi N, Nakamura Y, Nakamura M. Isolation and characterization of Vasa in the frog Rana rugosa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 313:452-9. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Özhan-Kizil G, Havemann J, Gerberding M. Germ cells in the crustacean Parhyale hawaiensis depend on Vasa protein for their maintenance but not for their formation. Dev Biol 2009; 327:230-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2008.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2008] [Revised: 10/20/2008] [Accepted: 10/22/2008] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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39
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Sunanaga T, Saito Y, Kawamura K. Postembryonic epigenesis of Vasa-positive germ cells from aggregated hemoblasts in the colonial ascidian, Botryllus primigenus. Dev Growth Differ 2009; 48:87-100. [PMID: 16512853 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-169x.2006.00849.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether Vasa was a germline-specific marker in the colonial ascidian Botryllus primigenus, and whether it was inducible epigenetically in the adult life span. We cloned a Botryllus Vasa homologue (BpVas). The deduced open reading frame encoded 687 amino acid residues. It was expressed specifically by germline cells such as the loose cell mass, oogonia and juvenile oocytes in the ovary, and the primordial testis (compact cell mass), spermatogonia and juvenile spermatocytes in the testis. The loose cell mass, the most primitive germline cells, showed an ultrastructure of undifferentiated cells known as hemoblasts. The hemoblasts did not contain electron-dense materials or a mitochondrial assembly in the cytoplasm. These organelles appeared later in the oogonia and oocytes. When the loose cell mass and developing germ cells were eliminated by extirpating all zooids and buds from the colonies, BpVas transcripts disappeared completely from the vascularized colonies. After 14 days, when the colonies regenerated by vascular budding, BpVas-positive cells reappeared in some cases, and in 30 day colonies, BpVas-positive germ cells were observed in all the regenerated colonies. These results show that in B. primigenus, germ cells are inducible de novo from the Vasa-negative cells even at postembryonic stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Sunanaga
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Kochi University, Kochi 780-8520, Japan.
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Ariz M, Mainpal R, Subramaniam K. C. elegans RNA-binding proteins PUF-8 and MEX-3 function redundantly to promote germline stem cell mitosis. Dev Biol 2008; 326:295-304. [PMID: 19100255 PMCID: PMC2680957 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2008.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2008] [Revised: 11/24/2008] [Accepted: 11/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Maintenance of mitotically cycling germline stem cells (GSCs) is vital for continuous production of gametes. In worms and insects, signaling from surrounding somatic cells play an essential role in the maintenance of GSCs by preventing premature differentiation. In addition, germ cell proteins such as the Drosophila Pumilio and Caenorhabditis elegans FBF, both members of the PUF family translational regulators, contribute to GSC maintenance. FBF functions by suppressing GLD-1, which promotes meiotic entry. However, factors that directly promote GSC proliferation, rather than prevent differentiation, are not known. Here we show that PUF-8, another C. elegans member of the PUF family and MEX-3, a KH domain translational regulator, function redundantly to promote GSC mitosis. We find that PUF-8 protein is highly enriched in mitotic germ cells, which is similar to the expression pattern of MEX-3 described earlier. The puf-8(−) mex-3(−) double mutant gonads contain far fewer germ cells than both single mutants and wild-type. While these cells lack mitotic, meiotic and sperm markers, they retain the germ cell-specific P granules, and are capable of gametogenesis if GLP-1, which normally blocks meiotic entry, is removed. Significantly, we find that at least one of these two proteins is essential for germ cell proliferation even in meiotic entry-defective mutants, which otherwise produce germ cell tumors. We conclude PUF-8 and MEX-3 contribute to GSC maintenance by promoting mitotic proliferation rather than by blocking meiotic entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Ariz
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, India
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41
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Molecular cloning and characterization of a novel immunoreactive ATPase/RNA helicase in human filarial parasite Brugia malayi. Parasitol Res 2008; 104:753-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-008-1251-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2008] [Accepted: 10/21/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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42
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Yokota S. Historical survey on chromatoid body research. Acta Histochem Cytochem 2008; 41:65-82. [PMID: 18787638 PMCID: PMC2532602 DOI: 10.1267/ahc.08010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2008] [Accepted: 05/14/2008] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The chromatoid body (CB) is a male reproductive cell-specific organelle that appears in spermatocytes and spermatids. The cytoplasmic granule corresponding to the CB was first discovered some 130 years ago by von Brunn in 1876. Thirty years later the German term "chromatoide Körper" (chromatoid body) was introduced to describe this granule and is still used today. In this review, first, the results obtained by light microscopic studies on the CB for the first 60 years are examined. Next, many findings revealed by electron microscopic studies are reviewed. Finally, recent molecular cell biological studies concerning the CB are discussed. The conclusion obtained by exploring the papers on CB published during the past 130 years is that many of the modern molecular cell biological studies are undoubtedly based on information accumulated by vast amounts of early studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadaki Yokota
- Section of Functional Morphology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo, Nagasaki 859-3298, Japan.
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Chaikam V, Karlson D. Functional characterization of two cold shock domain proteins from Oryza sativa. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2008; 31:995-1006. [PMID: 18397370 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3040.2008.01811.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Two novel rice cold shock domain (CSD) proteins were cloned and characterized under different stress treatments and during various stages of development. OsCSP1 and OsCSP2 (Oryza sativa CSD protein) encode putative proteins consisting of an N-terminal CSD and glycine-rich regions that are interspersed by 4 and 2 CX(2)CX(4)HX(4)C (CCHC) retroviral-like zinc fingers, respectively. In vivo functional analysis confirmed that OsCSPs can complement a cold-sensitive bacterial strain which lacks four endogenous cold shock proteins. In vitro ssDNA binding assays determined that recombinant OsCSPs are capable of functioning as nucleic acid-binding proteins. Both OsCSP transcripts are transiently up-regulated in response to low-temperature stress and rapidly return to a basal level of gene expression. Protein blot analysis determined that OsCSPs are maintained at a constant level subsequent to a cold treatment lasting over a period of several days. Both the transcript and protein data are in sharp contrast to those previously obtained for winter wheat WCSP1. A time-coursed study through various stages of rice development confirmed that both OsCSP proteins and transcripts are highly accumulated in reproductive tissues and tissues which exhibit meristematic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Chaikam
- West Virginia University, Division of Plant & Soil Sciences, 1090 Agricultural Sciences, Morgantown, WV 26506-6108, USA
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44
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Abstract
The Vasa DEAD-box helicases are widespread markers of germ cells across species, and in some organisms have been shown to be essential for germ-cell formation and development. In contrast to the single Vasa gene in most systems analyzed, Caenorhabditis elegans has four Vasa family members, the germline helicases GLH-1, GLH-2, GLH-3, and GLH-4. Our analysis of deletion alleles of each glh gene demonstrates that GLH-1 is the key member of the family: loss of GLH-1 function causes sterility that is mainly maternal effect, is manifested predominantly at elevated temperature, and is due to reduced germ-cell proliferation and impaired formation of both sperm and oocytes. The other GLHs are not essential. However, GLH-4 serves redundant roles with GLH-1: loss of both genes' function causes glh-1-like sterility at all temperatures. Molecular epistasis analysis demonstrates that GLH-1 and GLH-4 are required for proper association of the PGL family of proteins with P granules, suggesting a pathway of P-granule assembly in which the GLHs are upstream of the PGL proteins and the mRNA cap-binding protein IFE-1. While loss of some P-granule components causes worms to be defective in RNA interference, loss of GLH-1 and GLH-4 does not compromise RNAi. Thus, RNAi likely does not require intact P granules but instead relies on particular P-granule factors. We discuss the evolution of the Vasa/GLH genes and current views of their functions and the assembly and roles of germ granules among species.
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45
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Rebscher N, Volk C, Teo R, Plickert G. The germ plasm component vasa allows tracing of the interstitial stem cells in the cnidarianHydractinia echinata. Dev Dyn 2008; 237:1736-45. [DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.21562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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46
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Salinas LS, Maldonado E, Macías-Silva M, Blackwell TK, Navarro RE. The DEAD box RNA helicase VBH-1 is required for germ cell function in C. elegans. Genesis 2007; 45:533-46. [PMID: 17868112 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.20323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Vasa and Belle are conserved DEAD box RNA helicases required for germ cell function. Homologs of this group of proteins in several species, including mammals, are able to complement a mutation in yeast (DED1) suggesting that their function is highly conserved. It has been proposed that these proteins are required for mRNA translation regulation, but their specific mechanism of action is still unknown. Here we describe functions of VBH-1, a C. elegans protein closely related to Belle and Vasa. VBH-1 is expressed specifically in the C. elegans germline, where it is associated with P granules, the C. elegans germ plasm counterpart. vbh-1(RNAi) animals produce fewer offspring than wild type because of defects in oocyte and sperm production, and embryonic lethality. We also find that VBH-1 participates in the sperm/oocyte switch in the hermaphrodite gonad. We conclude that VBH-1 and its orthologs may perform conserved roles in fertility and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Silvia Salinas
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, México D.F., 04510 México
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Nakamura Y, Yamamoto Y, Usui F, Mushika T, Ono T, Setioko AR, Takeda K, Nirasawa K, Kagami H, Tagami T. Migration and Proliferation of Primordial Germ Cells in the Early Chicken Embryo. Poult Sci 2007; 86:2182-93. [PMID: 17878448 DOI: 10.1093/ps/86.10.2182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In avian species, primordial germ cells (PGC) use the vascular system as a vehicle to transport them to the future gonadal region. The aim of this study was to elucidate the details of migration system and size of the PGC population in the early chicken embryo. We analyzed whole chicken embryos during stages X and 2 to 17 by immunohistochemical staining using specific antibody raised against chicken vasa homolog. At stage X, PGC were dense in the central zone of the area pellucida. Following the formation of the primitive streak, PGC moved anteriorly to the edge of the extraembryonic region. The size of the PGC population increased gradually during stages X (130.4 +/- 31.9) to 10 (439.3 +/- 93.6). At stage 10, PGC began to accumulate in the region anterior to the head, and then we could observe that PGC invaded into the vascular system in this region. At stage 11, the number of PGC decreased in the region anterior to the head (129.8 +/- 42.5 to 46.7 +/- 4.2) and increased in the blood vessels (194.0 +/- 41.6 to 285.0 +/- 7.5). No PGC could be recognized in the intermediate mesoderm, the future gonadal region, until stage 14, but they first appeared there at stage 15. The number of PGC recognized in the intermediate mesoderm increased from stage 15 to 17. Interestingly, the number of PGC between the left and right sides of this region was consistently and significantly different (P < 0.05) in females and males. The present study mainly clarified that chicken PGC continue to proliferate throughout early development, many PGC invaded into the vascular system from the region anterior to the head in stage 11, and PGC actively left the blood vessels and migrated to the intermediate mesoderm from stage 15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Nakamura
- Department of Food Production Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Shinshu University, Minamiminowa, Nagano 399-4598, Japan
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Strome S, Garvin C, Paulsen J, Capowski E, Martin P, Beanan M. Specification and development of the germline in Caenorhabditis elegans. CIBA FOUNDATION SYMPOSIUM 2007; 182:31-45; discussion 45-57. [PMID: 7835156 DOI: 10.1002/9780470514573.ch3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Maternal-effect sterile (mes) genes encode maternal components that are required for establishment and development of the germline. Five such genes have been identified in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Mutations in one of the genes result in defects in the asymmetric division and cytoplasmic partitioning that generate the primordial germ cell P4 at the 16-24-cell stage of embryogenesis. As a result of these defects, the P4 cell is transformed into a muscle progenitor and mutant embryos develop into sterile adults with extra body muscles. Mutations in the other four mes genes do not affect formation of the germline during embryogenesis, but result in drastically reduced proliferation of the germline during post-embryonic stages and in an absence of gametes in adults. The failure to form gametes may reflect a defect in germline specification or may be a consequence of reduced germline proliferation. We are currently testing these two possibilities. In addition to the mes gene products, wild-type function of the zygotic gene glp-4 is required for normal post-embryonic proliferation of the germline. Germ cells in glp-4 mutant worms are arrested in prophase of the mitotic cell cycle and are unable to enter meiosis and form gametes. Thus, following establishment of the germ lineage in the early embryo, both maternal and zygotic gene products work in concert to promote the extensive proliferation of the germline and to enable germ cells to generate functional gametes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Strome
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington 47405
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49
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Orsborn AM, Li W, McEwen TJ, Mizuno T, Kuzmin E, Matsumoto K, Bennett KL. GLH-1, the C. elegans P granule protein, is controlled by the JNK KGB-1 and by the COP9 subunit CSN-5. Development 2007; 134:3383-92. [PMID: 17699606 DOI: 10.1242/dev.005181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The GLHs (germline RNA helicases) are constitutive components of the germline-specific P granules in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and are essential for fertility, yet how GLH proteins are regulated remains unknown. KGB-1 and CSN-5 are both GLH binding partners, previously identified by two-hybrid interactions. KGB-1 is a MAP kinase in the Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) subfamily, whereas CSN-5 is a subunit of the COP9 signalosome. Intriguingly, although loss of either KGB-1 or CSN-5 results in sterility, their phenotypes are strikingly different. Whereas csn-5 RNA interference (RNAi) results in under-proliferated germlines, similar to glh-1/glh-4(RNAi), the kgb-1(um3) loss-of-function mutant exhibits germline over-proliferation. When kgb-1(um3) mutants are compared with wild-type C. elegans, GLH-1 protein levels are as much as 6-fold elevated and the organization of GLH-1 in P granules is grossly disrupted. A series of additional in vivo and in vitro tests indicates that KGB-1 and CSN-5 regulate GLH-1 levels, with GLH-1 targeted for proteosomal degradation by KGB-1 and stabilized by CSN-5. We propose the ;good cop: bad cop' team of CSN-5 and KGB-1 imposes a balance on GLH-1 levels, resulting in germline homeostasis. In addition, both KGB-1 and CSN-5 bind Vasa, a Drosophila germ granule component; therefore, similar regulatory mechanisms might be conserved from worms to flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Orsborn
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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50
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Breger J, Fuchs BB, Aperis G, Moy TI, Ausubel FM, Mylonakis E. Antifungal chemical compounds identified using a C. elegans pathogenicity assay. PLoS Pathog 2007; 3:e18. [PMID: 17274686 PMCID: PMC1790726 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.0030018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2006] [Accepted: 12/27/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need for the development of new antifungal agents. A facile in vivo model that evaluates libraries of chemical compounds could solve some of the main obstacles in current antifungal discovery. We show that Candida albicans, as well as other Candida species, are ingested by Caenorhabditis elegans and establish a persistent lethal infection in the C. elegans intestinal track. Importantly, key components of Candida pathogenesis in mammals, such as filament formation, are also involved in nematode killing. We devised a Candida-mediated C. elegans assay that allows high-throughput in vivo screening of chemical libraries for antifungal activities, while synchronously screening against toxic compounds. The assay is performed in liquid media using standard 96-well plate technology and allows the study of C. albicans in non-planktonic form. A screen of 1,266 compounds with known pharmaceutical activities identified 15 (approximately 1.2%) that prolonged survival of C. albicans-infected nematodes and inhibited in vivo filamentation of C. albicans. Two compounds identified in the screen, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, a major active component of honeybee propolis, and the fluoroquinolone agent enoxacin exhibited antifungal activity in a murine model of candidiasis. The whole-animal C. elegans assay may help to study the molecular basis of C. albicans pathogenesis and identify antifungal compounds that most likely would not be identified by in vitro screens that target fungal growth. Compounds identified in the screen that affect the virulence of Candida in vivo can potentially be used as "probe compounds" and may have antifungal activity against other fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Breger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Beth Burgwyn Fuchs
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - George Aperis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Terence I Moy
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Frederick M Ausubel
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Eleftherios Mylonakis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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